What is EGFR Mutant Lung Cancer?
EGFR mutant lung cancer is a type of lung cancer driven by a mutation in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene.
The epidermal growth factor receptor, also known as EGFR, is a protein found in the cells lining many organs. EGFR sends signals that tell these cells when to grow.
The EGFR gene provides the instructions to make the EGFR protein. This process helps cells grow as needed to maintain healthy tissues. Genes play a vital role in our bodies by preventing cells from growing out of control and causing cancer.
What is a Gene Mutation?
A gene mutation is a change or damage to a gene’s instructions (also known as its DNA). When a gene is mutated, it can produce a protein that does not work correctly.
The EGFR gene mutation causes the EGFR protein to stay "on," leading to changes that cause uncontrolled cell growth and cancer.
EGFR gene mutations are not found in all cancers. For example, only 10 to 15% of all lung cancers will have this mutation. This means that out of 100 people with lung cancer, only 10 to 15 will have this mutation. EGFR gene mutations are found only in cancer cells, not in healthy tissues.
Genetic Testing for EGFR Mutations
Once lung cancer diagnosis has been confirmed, genetic testing should be done promptly to look for EGFR mutations and other mutations that might be present in the cancer. This is called "next-generation sequencing" or "comprehensive biomarker testing."
Genetic testing can be done using a liquid biopsy, which is a blood test.
It's rare for EGFR mutations to be inherited. This means that it's very unlikely that they can be passed on to children.
EGFR Gene Mutation and Treatment
People with an EGFR mutation in their cancer cells often respond well to targeted therapies. These medicines are designed to block the EGFR protein and slow or stop cancer growth.
There are many medicines that target EGFR mutant lung cancers, but not all mutations are treated the same way. Your doctor may recommend a targeted therapy, chemotherapy, or other treatment based on your specific mutation.
Your care team will explain how this mutation affects your treatment plan and what to expect.
